Idaho, derived from the Shoshone term for ‘gem of the mountains,’ is indeed a gem. It's a state of natural beauty, perfect for those who prefer a private, scenic lifestyle. The lower population and serene environment attract homeowners seeking a more off-the-grid life. Idaho isn’t deserted, however; the state boasts large cities like Boise and a population of nearly two million. The cost of living isn’t bad either, at six percent lower than the national average.
For those who are already enjoying the Idaho scenery, increasing the value of your home is a great way to improve its quality as an investment. This guide will illuminate the most innovative strategies and renovations to boost your property value and aid your financial future.
- Learn Idaho Home Trends
- Before starting any renovation project to boost home value, it’s a great idea to look around at other popular and high-value homes to see what features they include. Idaho homes typically favor open spaces with ample windows inviting the outdoors. Those getting home loans in Idaho prefer large outdoor spaces and open floor plans. However, tastes and trends change often, so updating your home’s interior decor and accents frequently can solidify your home investment.
- Eco-Friendly or Off-the-Grid Options
- Those who love Idaho's natural landscapes and rural living opportunities love to see such preferences reflected in their homes. Renovations that can include eco-friendly home options such as energy-efficient appliances, weatherproof windows, and renewable energy like solar or wind power can significantly improve a home’s value. You can upgrade the roof to include solar shingles instead of bulky solar panels. Electric vehicle charging may be wise to include as well. Update your lighting to LED or other efficient options to increase property value and save money on utility bills!
- Bathroom Renovations
- Consider upgrading the size or amenities if your bathrooms are small or inflexible. Expand the size of your bathtubs. Include a comfortable showering option to accommodate all preferences. Increase the floor plan of the bathroom for more comfortable maneuvering. Adding additional counter space is always a good move.
- Versatile Kitchens
- Spacious, open, entertaining kitchens are trending. Add more windows and natural light to the kitchen space to bring in more Idaho scenery. Increase counter space and add as much square footage to the kitchen as possible. Kitchen islands are also a smart way to add versatility and space.
- Patio Space
- It can be disappointing to live in the scenic wilderness of Idaho without getting to enjoy it. Include a patio or deck space with plenty of versatility on your home’s exterior, including cooking, relaxation, and perhaps even a pool or spa. Tasteful garden features can subtly enhance the space as well.
- Open Floor Plans
- Idaho has wide, open spaces with huge mountainous landscapes. Open floor plans mimic this landscape. They also make a space more flexible for homeowner preferences, such as entertaining, working, or family fun. Consider knocking down an optional wall or two to open a space for maximum home value.
- High-Quality Materials
- Consider using high-quality, durable materials no matter what kind of renovations your home goes through. They may be more expensive to install, but they go a long way in improving your home's structure, safety, and value. Material upgrades can include siding, roofing, flooring, and even insulation.
- Upgrades and Replacements
- If it’s been a while since you’ve performed upgrades to your home, take care of it now, especially if you plan on selling soon. Upgrading your home’s roof can reduce costly damages, improve insulation, and lower the chance of leaks or water damage. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system also requires regular replacements after about a decade. An outdated HVAC system can significantly increase energy bills and decrease air quality, so replacements are necessary for better home value and efficiency.
- Change Your Flooring
- It may be time for a replacement if you have old, stained carpeting. You can add new carpeting or switch to beautiful hardwood floors to add a luxurious feel. If you plan on renting out your home, vinyl flooring looks great, is easy to clean, and doesn’t cost much to replace. Consider the flooring options that work best for your home and preferences.
- Smart Home Features
- Many homeowners are happy to pay top dollar for smart homes. Smart features connect to the internet to provide a tailored, simple way to control the home’s lighting, security, media, and more! Home automation reduces effort and stress while adding more function and efficiency. Consider installing smart home features to give your home that extra edge.
Conclusion
Renovating your home to increase its value can improve your long-term investment. Idaho is a beautifully scenic retreat to hang your hat, so a home’s interior and exterior should reflect this serenity. Consider open, flexible floor plans and spacious rooms with space outside for relaxing and enjoying Idaho’s lush scenery. Study Idaho’s home trends and preferences to keep up with the times. Replace any systems like roofing and air conditioning for maximum value and efficiency.